Louisiana CNA Training

As soon as an individual graduates from high school, there is pressure on him or her to attend college to prepare for a career. However, there are educational opportunities other than a traditional college that can lead to a successful and satisfying career. For someone who has always wanted a job where he or she can feel like they're really making a difference in the world, Louisiana CNA classes may be the answer.

For someone who's never heard of Louisiana CNA classes before, or the way that they can help a person to achieve a satisfying career as a certified nursing assistant, a lot can be gained by researching the responsibilities and job outlook for this important industry. CNAs are responsible for providing support and various patient services in a health care setting, such as a hospital, nursing home, mental health facility, or public health clinic.

Becoming a CNA in Louisiana

In order to become a CNA in Louisiana, one must complete an approved training program consisting of a minimum of 80 hours, including 40 clinical hours and 40 classroom hours. Of the training, at least 16 hours must be spent on the following topics:

Bed Making

Taking Vital Signs

Measuring Height and Weight

Caring for the Patient's Environment

Measuring Intake and Output

Assisting with Nutrition

Ambulation and Transferring

Using Body Mechanics

Infection Control and Safety

Understanding protocols for proficiency in CPR

Caring for Dying Patients

Recognizing Abnormalities

Caring for those with Alzheimer's and Dementia

Personal Care Skills

Mental Health and Social Service

Basic Restorative Services

Patient/Resident Rights

Communication/Interpersonal Skills

Safety/Emergency Procedures

Promoting Independence

Heimlich Maneuver

After Completing the Training

Following completion of the CNA training course, one must pass the state's competency exam. He or she is also subject to a background check.

Renewing a CNA License

In Louisiana, nurse aides must be paid for at least 8 hours of nursing or nurse related duties within every 24 month period or else they lose their certification. Even if a CNA works the necessary hours, the individual will still lose his or her certification if these hours are not reported to the CNA registry. If a CNA loses his or her certification, he or she must recomplete a nurse aide training program.

Licensure by Reciprocity

Louisiana also has a reciprocity process, which allows licensed CNA from other states to become registered to work as a CNA in Louisiana. An individual wishing to do so must fill out and submit a reciprocity form to the Louisiana CNA registry.